[Diabetes-Talk] Which of the two accessible CGM is better and why? Getting ready to meet with my doctor about re-authorizing a CGM.

[Jane Ferguson]

Hi Maurice,
I just joined the group, and I'm happy to receive my first email.

The CGM measures your BG from interstitial fluid, so it is generally a
lower reading than a capillary fingerstick. A fingerstick is your BG at the
time of the stick, while the interstitial reading can be delayed 5- 20
minutes depending on many factors.
I calibrate after the warm up period a couple of times using a fingerstick.
If my BG is low then I do a finger stick as the cgm is not that accurate if
you're running low. This helps me use the right amount of carbohydrate to
raise my BG. After my BG on the CGM is in the normal range then I calibrate
again.
The Dexcom G7 is more accurate, lasts 10 days with a 12 hour grace period,
and is easy to insert. My endo approves placing it on the abdomen if you
don't like to use your arms. It is a good feature to be able to let a new
sensor warmup in your body for 12 hours before disconnecting the expiring
sensor and taking readings on the new one.
I'm thinking strongly about switching to the Libre 3 because it lasts 14
days even though it may not be as accurate as the Dexcom G7. I'd like to
try it out first to see how much "damage" the device creates in your tissue
upon insertion. I build up scar tissue from sensor insertion requiring a
search for more "real estate". Dexcom used to have a more generous free
replacement policy if a sensor fails. It is now limited to three free
replacements per year. The Libre 3 CGM is less expensive.
I'd try a complimentary Libre 3 first and if it works well, then I'm going
to talk to my endo about switching, too!

I'm glad you brought that topic up.

Sincerely,
*Jane Ferguson*


On Mon, Nov 11, 2024 at 2:19 PM Maurice Mines via Diabetes-Talk <
diabetes-talk at nfbnet.org> wrote:

> Hello everyone this question has probably been asked on list before. But
> since I I am about to have that meeting with my primary position, meeting
> time to decide which CGM I'm going to use for the next three years, I think
> it's time to just at least look at the pros and cons of both accessible
> systems.
>
> I'm currently using the Leber 3 System. In my specific situation, I'm
> finding that the readings are at least 20 to 25 points off the standard
> stick test. So of course I just have to do math most of the time. Although
> this isn't a big issue it can be somewhat annoying sometimes. I know many
> people on this list use the other system, Dex com. What are the advantages,
> and more potential disadvantages of potentially switching? Note I am not on
> insulin, and I'm trying to. And we all think that my diabetes is stable
> meaning I have very good control. Broccoli 6.4 entrance of A1 c.
>
> I hope this is not considered TMI on list? It is certainly not a
> scientific study and or even scientifically based, I'm just seeking some
> information. Just to make an informed choice if I need to make one? I'm
> likely to just stay with what I am using being asked my doctor to continue
> using what I'm using for another three years. Any thoughts?
>
>
>
>
>
> Maurice A. Mines, President
>
> National Federation of the Blind Deaf-Blind Division
>
> Email: nfbdbpresident at mmines.org
>
> Website: www.nfb.org <http://www.nfbdeaf-blind.org>
>
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